You can call me Dr. Urai now

That’s it.
After 4+ years, a good number of triumphs and vastly more failures, I’ve defended my PhD!

For the occasion, I’d like to share a short piece about my experience as a PhD student that I originally wrote for a friend when she graduated. I recommend the original if you read Dutch.

Enjoy.
Or let me know how I’ve got it all wrong.
Whatever, it’s Dr. Urai for you now!

The lighthouse (or, the tale of an academic journey)

Leave your comfort zone at dawn, carrying a backpack filled with coffee, snacks and the occasional beer – you’ll need it during the hike. Walk eastwards through the forest, and be careful not to get lost in the thicket. You may find some paths to follow, but they are usually not well-connected; clear your own way where necessary. Don’t forget to look around you, as there are many undiscovered species to be found.
Follow the sounds of the ocean: once you leave the forest you’ll be able to see the coast. From there, it’s still a considerable distance. Whenever it gets unbearably hot, take a break and go for a swim in the ocean. Don’t forget that you’re on this trip because you want to, so you may as well enjoy yourself.
You’ll see the beautiful lighthouse from miles away. Legend has it that many of the scholars who attempted had to give up the journey, but that those who reach their destination are destined for great adventures. Clamber over the rocks in the surf, climb up the steep stairs and enjoy the view.
You can head back at the end of the day, or satisfy your curiosity and see where the rest of the path leads…